Best Bug Repellent

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Sawyer Picaridin
Test Winner: Sawyer Picaridin
Amazon Link
Nothing says summer more than the sound of crickets in the night and the bullfrogs loudly expressing their excitement from the ponds after an evening summer rain, but do you know what else shows the signs of summer? Those nasty insect bites and the annoying no-see-ums that nibble on your ears. Before you begin your summer activities, consider a plan of defense against those irritating insects and show them you are the boss before they begin to chew on you like the main dish of a buffet.

There are so many choices, from odorless to knock down strong; lotions, pumps, and aerosols. DEET, or DEET free? Do you get one that will work on your skin and clothes, or do you need one for your tent and sleeping bag? Let us introduce you to some of our favorites below.

Standout Picks

SAWYER Premium Picaridin Repellent 3
It’s hard to find an insect repellent that is safe to use on babies, but with the Sawyer line of DEET free repellents, you will rest assured they are safe for the entire family. Apply it in the morning and enjoy the entire day itch free.
Amazon Link
Repel Insect Repellent Scented Family Formula 15% DEET
Keep your family safe and out of harm’s way with this family insect repellent. Take it camping. to the Caribbean, or use it in your backyard, no matter what your plans, you won’t be disappointed with the results you will discover from this fantastic repellent.
Amazon Link
Ben's 30% Deet Insect Repellent Spray
When you’re venturing throughout a tropical climate you’re bound to get attacked by some nasty insects, and the last thing you want is to contract a disease, that’s why this repellent made especially for the wilderness is a good choice for you.
Amazon Link
$23.66
Natrapel 8 Hour Insect Repellent
If you want to stay protected from the evilest of insects while traveling overseas, this repellent is the perfect size to carry with you. It will last for 12-hours and it will assure you will stay safe from all those nasty, itchy, red bumps that bites will leave behind.
Amazon Link
$14.25
Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent
For those outdoor camping trips or long hikes throughout the trails, this is the longest-lasting repellent we have on our list, and it’s made just for your clothing and gear.
Amazon Link
$13.92
Repel 100 Bug Repellent
If you’re planning a trip to the tropics and you don’t want to be on the menu at the mosquito buffet, then consider this little bottle of repellent. Spray it on before you go out and it should last the entire day or night.
Amazon Link
$7.48
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
One of the best things in the summer is sitting by the fire at night, but if you have to battle the bugs it’s impossible to relax. For years, Off has always proven to protect families from the evil bites of insects, and this deep woods formula is no different.
Amazon Link
$10.98
REPEL Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
If you are a mosquito magnet, this all-natural repellent offered by Repel is something you should consider for your protection up to 6-hours; especially when you explore through those damp, swampy areas where those disease-transmitting mosquitoes love to feed.
Amazon Link
Skedattle - Natural Bug Spray
The last thing you want is for your children to encounter a mosquito habitat or a field of fleas. That’s why you always want to be sure they are protected in the event it does happen but finding an insect repellent that is safe for them to use is not always as easy as one would think. That’s why Skedattle has invented a spray the whole family can use, even the dog.
Amazon Link
Off! Family Care Smooth & Dry, 2.5-Ounce Cans
Off comes to the rescue once again, but this time they bring with them an insect repellent that can be enjoyed by the entire family. If you want something that feels invisible on your skin and will keep those annoying bugs away from you, this is a good choice.
Amazon Link
$29.99

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Features

It’s important to know what you can expect from a product of this nature, after all, you want to be sure your family is safe. You need to know how uncomfortable the bug repellent will leave you for the day and knowing the difference between a pump spray, aerosol, and lotion is also important. If you are asthmatic, then you will not want to choose an aerosol, and some lotions might break out your skin. You also need to know if the container is convenient enough to toss into your pack, or should you prepare a separate place in your duffle bag for a larger can. Of course, you always need to gather all the information you can to prepare for your outing.

Product Purity

Ingredients are important for the sake of yourself and everyone in your family. DEET is a very powerful chemical and there are many people who try to avoid it. Additionally, some of the ingredients are too strong for younger members of the family while others might contain an allergen that will ruin your entire trip. As with most things, always be sure and read ingredient labels before you make a purchase to avoid a bad scenario.

Effectiveness

This information will help you to determine if it will work with you during the outing you have planned. You wouldn’t want to take a bug repellent with you to the Caribbean that is designed to be used for only a few hours at your backyard smores party. You also don’t want something to protect you from fleas if it will only work with mosquitos, so before you make your decision decide what you will need the repellent and how long will it be in use at one time.

Ease of Use

There would be nothing worse than unexpectedly meeting a pack of mosquitos then realizing you forgot to apply your spray. What’s worse than that would be opening the bottle only to find the pump is stuck and nothing will come out. These are very good reasons you need to know what to expect from your repellent. It’s also equally important to know how to use the bug repellent properly because you wouldn’t want to risk damage to clothing or gear and the last thing you need is a health hazard because you failed to read the labels.

Top 10 Picks

1. Sawyer Picaridin

Where to buy
Amazon Link
SAWYER Premium Picaridin Repellent 3
Amazon Link

It’s hard to find an insect repellent that is safe to use on babies, but with the Sawyer line of DEET free repellents, you will rest assured they are safe for the entire family. Apply it in the morning and enjoy the entire day itch free.

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Features
This bug repellent comes in the form of a lotion that will last up to 14-hours, which means you can put it on once a day and forget about it. Unlike some insect repellents, with this one, it’s not greasy or sticky and it’s odorless so you won’t have to deal with a headache from an unpleasant smell. You can use it with your sunscreen and it’s safe to use with your gear and equipment. The best thing about this repellent is that the entire family can use it and it’s safe to use during pregnancy.

Product Purity
It is a DEET free, natural repellent and made with a 20-percent picaridin. Picaridin is made of piperine which is found in a class of plants used when making black pepper. That’s why natural is best, making this one safe for use on the entire family.
Effectiveness
Since there is no need to apply this lotion but once a day, it will last longer than some of the others on our list. It leaves positive results winning the battle against disease-bearing mosquitoes, so it would be the protection you need when you’re in the jungle. Even if you’re in your own backyard you will find that you will chase away biting flies, chiggers, and those annoying no-see-ums. Never again will you find a tick on you and no more flea bites either.

Ease of Use
The bottle is easy to use, just squeeze it and the lotion will come right out. It won’t leave messes and there is no need to fight with the cap; just push it open and snap it shut, it’s that simple. When applying this lotion, you should put it in your hands and spread it evenly like you would a moisturizer. Never allow your children to apply it to themselves, instead, squeeze some in your palm and apply it to them. When you’re finished, wash your hands and throw in your pack allowing it to safely rest until your next use.

Summary
When it comes to a DEET free insect repellent that is safe for everyone in the family, Sawyer delivers. Knowing that it’s safe, it’s all-natural, you only need to apply it once a day, and it has none of those unpleasant odors like some of the rest, how could you go wrong with this one?

Amazon Link

2. Repel 15% Deet

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Repel Insect Repellent Scented Family Formula 15% DEET
Amazon Link

Keep your family safe and out of harm’s way with this family insect repellent. Take it camping. to the Caribbean, or use it in your backyard, no matter what your plans, you won’t be disappointed with the results you will discover from this fantastic repellent.

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Features
This aerosol spray repellent is made to last up to 7-hours, and not only can you use it on your skin, but it will work on your clothes without leaving behind stains or residue. It’s not oily and it doesn’t leave a strong odor behind, so you can sneak up on your friends and they won’t know you’re there. It’s perfect to keep near the back door so the kids will remember to grab it on their way out or keep it in the boat for those fishing adventures in the swamp.

Product Purity
Although it does contain 15-percent of DEET, which is one of the most common ingredients in many insect repellents, the other ingredients are probably the reason it doesn’t produce an obnoxious odor and it is still safe for all your family members.
Effectiveness
This repellent should stay effective for the biggest part of your day without having to re-apply it and it is excellent, and highly recommended for mosquitoes. It’s effective for scaring off those pesky gnats that you often find in your backyard, and it will also work for warding off fleas and ticks as well.

Ease of Use
It is an aerosol spray and should be used with caution. When applying the repellent, you should be in an open area and hold the can 6-8-inches away from the skin and garments you are spraying. When applying the repellent to your face, spray it into your hands and then rub it on your skin. You should also spray it into your hands before applying to children. Always wash your hands after use and store it high out of the reach of small children.

Summary
The amount of DEET in this spray is a much less percentage than most, therefore, it is one of the best overall family insect repellents. Take it with you on family outings or to the mountains, wherever you go, you will be safe with this one.

Amazon Link

3. Ben's 30% Deet

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$23.66
Ben's 30% Deet Insect Repellent Spray
Amazon Link

When you’re venturing throughout a tropical climate you’re bound to get attacked by some nasty insects, and the last thing you want is to contract a disease, that’s why this repellent made especially for the wilderness is a good choice for you.

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Features
This spray pump contains a water-based formula that’s safe to use on your skin and clothes. It’s not oily and it doesn’t leave a nasty scent. It will last up to 10-hours and it’s small enough to fit into your pocket or the pouch of your backpack. Due to the higher amount of DEET in this one, it is probably not one of the better choices to use on young family members.

Product Purity
This bug repellent contains 30-percent DEET, but the other ingredients including water are probably the reasons there is little odor when it’s applied.

Effectiveness
This one is powerful enough to fight off mosquitoes, especially when you’re in an area where they are known to carry disease. Ticks and black flies will hide from you as well, so you will be sure to be the one sharing your repellent with those who forgot theirs.

Ease of Use
The pump is easy to use and it’s best if you spray it on your hands first and then apply it to your skin. Always be sure you wash your hands after application.

Summary
In the hottest climates, this repellent will keep you safe from all those nasty diseases toting mosquitoes and some of those other annoying pests lurking in the air. The fact that the bottle is small makes it convenient to grab when you quickly need it. So, with all this in mind, you can see why this would be the perfect choice for all those hot nights in the wilderness.

Amazon Link
$23.66

4. Natrapel 12 Hour

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$14.25
Natrapel 8 Hour Insect Repellent
Amazon Link

If you want to stay protected from the evilest of insects while traveling overseas, this repellent is the perfect size to carry with you. It will last for 12-hours and it will assure you will stay safe from all those nasty, itchy, red bumps that bites will leave behind.

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Features
This repellent is offered in the perfect TSA approved travel size and, because it’s Deet free it will be safe for your entire family. It’s ideal for use on your clothing and it’s safe for your gear. It has a pleasant smell, so you won’t scare away your friends, but it does tend to be a bit sticky when applied.

Product Purity
This one is a natural, 100-percent DEET free repellent that contains 20-percent Picaridin, making it safe for all the members of your family.

Effectiveness
You will find this insect repellent to be effective on those disease-bearing mosquitoes as well as other mean insects including black, sand, and biting flies, gnats, and chiggers. Put it on in the morning and it should keep you safe up to 12-hours.

Ease of Use
Since this bottle is small enough to fit in your pocket it’s easy enough to grab, open the cap, and apply it to the affected area in a hurry. You should spray it on your hands first and then rub it on your skin for the best results, especially when you’re applying this to your children. Wash your hands immediately after applying the repellent to avoid rubbing it in your eyes.

Summary
It’s convenient and easy to use, it will pass TSA inspection, and the thought of only having to carry one type of repellent for the entire family to use makes it simple to see why this is a great choice. It’s DEET free, leaves a pleasant smell, and it’s safe for your clothes and gear too. This one is the perfect all-around choice.

Amazon Link
$14.25

5. Sawyer Products Premium

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$13.92
Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent
Amazon Link

For those outdoor camping trips or long hikes throughout the trails, this is the longest-lasting repellent we have on our list, and it’s made just for your clothing and gear.

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Features
This repellent was created to keep your clothes and outdoor gear protected for 6-weeks. It provides enough repellent to spray two complete outfits; shirts, pants, and socks. Spray it on your tent, backpack, chairs, and sleeping bags. It will work for 6-weeks, or 6- washes without coming off. You can enjoy your time in the river or the lake without worry and there is no odor. If your trusty canine enjoys the outdoors as much as you do, you can use this on him also but be sure and follow the directions carefully before application. It is not intended for use on cats as the ingredients can be harmful to them. Although it’s not harmful to your skin, it won’t be effective so keep this one only for your clothing and gear.

Product Purity
This repellent contains Permethrin which was originally designed for use on military clothing and gear.

Effectiveness
This spray offers weeks of protection against more than 55 annoying and painful creatures including the most dangerous mosquitoes, flies, chiggers, and ticks.

Ease of Use
The bottle is designed to fit firmly in your hand and the easy-pull trigger makes it simple to spray the bug repellent evenly onto its target. Be sure you are outside when using this repellent, and after you spray each side of your clothing for 30-seconds, let them air dry for 2-hours. It’s as easy as 1-2-3, and once it’s applied you should be protected for 6-weeks.

Summary
Not every insect repellent is made strictly for clothing and gear nor is it effective for a long period of time. If you’re an avid fisherman or you’re planning a long camping trip, you will need this powerful repellent on your side. It’s odorless so you won’t feel sick every time you slide your pack on and you will sleep in peace knowing that those bugs won’t be having you for their midnight snack. With all this in mind, you can see why it’s one of our top picks on this list.

Amazon Link
$13.92

6. Repel 100

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$7.48
Repel 100 Bug Repellent
Amazon Link

If you’re planning a trip to the tropics and you don’t want to be on the menu at the mosquito buffet, then consider this little bottle of repellent. Spray it on before you go out and it should last the entire day or night.

Read more

Features
This bug spray is extremely strong and should not be used on children. It can be used on your skin and clothing for guaranteed protection against those pesky critters flying overhead. It is thick and oily making it a bit slimy, and the odor will probably keep your best friend away, but you can be certain it will also keep the bugs away. It is made to last up to 10-hours and a little bit will go along way.

Product Purity
The reason this repellent is so strong and powerful is that it’s made of 98.11-percent of DEET. For this reason, it cannot be used on the younger members of the family.

Effectiveness
Once this repellent is applied it will give you the protection you need for up to 10-hours. You can be guaranteed the mosquitoes will not want anything to do with you and they will take the biting flies with them. The ticks, fleas, gnats, and chiggers will stay away from you too, so you should be safe all day or night giving you more time to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

Ease of Use
It’s extremely important that you apply this in a wide-open area and don’t breathe it in. It’s made for convenience, so you can slide it in and out of your pack with ease. The cap will slide off without a problem and the pump works well allowing you to sparingly spray the repellent onto your skin. It’s always best to spray it into your hands first and then rub it on your skin. Wash your hands completely following the application.

Summary
This bottle might look small, but it’s filled with a lot of power. The odor is strong, but it will get the job done without complaining. Just imagine how much more time you can spend looking at the sights rather than scratching the bites.

Amazon Link
$7.48

7. Off! Deep Woods

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$10.98
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
Amazon Link

One of the best things in the summer is sitting by the fire at night, but if you have to battle the bugs it’s impossible to relax. For years, Off has always proven to protect families from the evil bites of insects, and this deep woods formula is no different.

Read more

Features
This repellent comes in an aerosol can and it’s made to last for several hours allowing you to enjoy your time outside without distractions. It sprays on dry, so it won’t leave a sticky or oily residue on your skin. It does have a mild odor when it’s first applied but it doesn’t last long making it tolerable to the nose. It works equally the same on your skin and clothes giving you the extra protection you need.

Product Purity
This one contains 25-percent DEET providing enough protection against the worst insects around yet leaving off a pleasant scent that won’t knock you off your seat.

Effectiveness
Made to last up to 6-hours, so spray it on in the morning for daytime protection, then apply it again late afternoon for your evening protection. You will be sure the mosquitoes will want nothing to do with you and you will scare away the gnats, ticks, chiggers, and those painful biting flies too.

Ease of Use
The easy to apply aerosol can is no different from traditional repellents of its kind, but it must be applied with caution. Use it in a well-ventilated area and be sure to hold it several inches away from your skin and clothing while spraying. Don’t breathe it in and avoid your eyes.

Summary
If you have been using insect repellents for a long time, then you should already know the quality of Off. This deep woods formula works great for repelling disease-infested mosquitoes, but it’s not meant for long-lasting protection, so if you’re planning a week-long trip through the wilderness, this might not be the choice for you.

Amazon Link
$10.98

8. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus

Where to buy
Amazon Link
REPEL Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
Amazon Link

If you are a mosquito magnet, this all-natural repellent offered by Repel is something you should consider for your protection up to 6-hours; especially when you explore through those damp, swampy areas where those disease-transmitting mosquitoes love to feed.

Read more

Features
This is an all-natural repellent intended to keep the mosquitos as far away from you as possible, and with the strong odor it holds, you can see how that would be possible. It comes in a small, convenient spray bottle. If you want to sit by the campfire, or on your back porch, just spray your furniture, it’s that safe. If you want to camp out all night, you can spray your bedding so that the mosquitoes won’t climb in and treat you as a snack. It is safe and natural for family use; however, it should not be used on tiny family members under the age of 3.

Product Purity
It is completely free of DEET and is mixed with 30-percent lemon eucalyptus and 45-percent ethanol, the remaining 70-percent includes other natural ingredients.

Effectiveness
You will be completely safe from mosquitoes, but you must heed caution to the possibility of attracting bees. This is probably because of the eucalyptus that makes up so much of the repellent. Once you apply the repellent though, the bugs will head the other way for at least 6-hours.

Ease of Use
The spray pump is easy to use, and as always, it’s recommended that you apply the repellent to your hands and then to your skin. This is especially true when you are applying this to children. It will last a long time and can be applied twice daily.

Summary
Despite the strong odor, this repellent is one of the best when you are in a mosquito-infested area. It’s all natural and free of DEET, it’s easy to apply, and it will last for approximately 6-hours, so why wouldn’t this repellent be a good choice?

Amazon Link

9. Skedattle Natural

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Skedattle - Natural Bug Spray
Amazon Link

The last thing you want is for your children to encounter a mosquito habitat or a field of fleas. That’s why you always want to be sure they are protected in the event it does happen but finding an insect repellent that is safe for them to use is not always as easy as one would think. That’s why Skedattle has invented a spray the whole family can use, even the dog.

Read more

Features
This bug repellent is chemical-free making it safe for everyone in the family above 6-months old. Spray it on your skin and your clothing before going outside but be sure and carry it with you because it will only last for approximately 2-hours. Since it’s all-natural, you can spray it on the family dog too as a flea and tick preventative while he plays outside with the kids. It doesn’t put off a nasty odor, but you might find it to be oilier than some of the others on this list. It would be a great repellent to take along with you on your travels, it just might not be as convenient as some since you will have to apply it more often.

Product Purity
This is an all-natural insect repellent containing citronella, peppermint, and lemongrass oils mixed with purified water and vanillin sorbate combination.

Effectiveness
You will find this repellent to be effective at warding off mosquitoes and fleas not to mention the fight it will put up against gnats, chiggers, and ticks. Although it will only last for a little more than an hour, you will be happy with the results.

Ease of Use
With the use of the pump spray, you can simply douse your skin and clothing with this repellent. You should pay close attention to the protection of your arms, legs, and ankles, and don’t forget to spray your hairline too. It’s safe to reapply as often as you need it.

Summary
Although there are a few downsides to this spray, overall, it is one of the safest, all-natural repellents you can buy for your family. It doesn’t smell awful like some, you can spray it safely on your clothes, and the dog can enjoy it too. These are all reasons worth giving this bug repellent a chance.

Amazon Link

10. Off Family Care Smooth

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$29.99
Off! Family Care Smooth & Dry, 2.5-Ounce Cans
Amazon Link

Off comes to the rescue once again, but this time they bring with them an insect repellent that can be enjoyed by the entire family. If you want something that feels invisible on your skin and will keep those annoying bugs away from you, this is a good choice.

Read more

Features
This powder formula dries immediately and won’t cause your skin to be greasy or sticky, in fact, you might feel as though you’re not even wearing bug repellent. It’s made for the family and can be sprayed on your cotton, nylon, and wool clothing.

Product Purity
This formula is made up of 15-percent DEET, but that isn’t enough to cause harm to your younger children.

Effectiveness
This is a great one to use if you plan to visit an area where disease-infested mosquitoes linger. This repellent has also shown to be effective against flies, fleas, chiggers, gnats, and ticks. Once you apply it, you should expect to stay protected for approximately 6-hours.

Ease of Use
This aerosol bug sprays on with ease and should be held 6-8-inches away from your clothing and skin when applying. For best results, you should shake the can before use and always spray into your hands when applying to children.

Summary
Off has outdone themselves when it comes to this insect repellent. Just the fact that it is more like a powder instead of bug spray says it all. It will provide you the extra protection you need from mosquitoes, and the whole family can get relief from those nasty creatures lingering in the air. With all this, it’s easy to understand why we saved this one for last.

Amazon Link
$29.99

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